MORE THAN £4 million in unclaimed benefits was hauled into Stewartry last year.

Dumfries and Galloway Citizens Advice Service (DAGCAS) said it lifted the income of hundreds of people who were struggling financially – and boosted the local economy.

According to figures released by the service, they sourced £4,256,232 for residents in the four council wards that cover the Stewartry district. That was through benefits, compensation, with-held wages or debt negotiation that people were unaware they were entitled to.

It contributes to a total of just under £12 million that was brought in for 2,187 people across the region.

Sue Irving, the chief executive of DAGCAS, said: “When people come to us with financial problems we look at every possible thing we can do to help them. Often we can negotiate with their creditors to freeze their debt or reduce their re-payments.

“But in some cases we can actually help them get additional income – for example it may be we can identify a benefit they are entitled to but didn’t know about.

“Or maybe we can help them get compensation.

“In some cases it can be as much as thousands of pounds. In others it’s a smaller amount.

“But let’s face it, in these troubled times every penny counts.”

She said that many people were unaware of the work that DAGCAS does and urged those suffering with debt problems to seek their help.

She added: “Often people aren’t aware of our work; for example the support we provide for people whose lives are affected by cancer.

“Last year we helped people with cancer to benefit by almost £1 million and people tell us that helping to address the financial burden of their illness is a huge relief.

“This is great value for money as for each £1 spent on this service £28 is generated for the local economy, a tremendous return on investment and a massive support during a very difficult time for individuals and their families.”

DAGCAS has offices in Castle Douglas and outreach clinics in Dalbeattie.